spinous process
noun
: a bony process of a vertebra that projects posteriorly from the neural arch and the junction of two laminae and provides attachment for muscles concerned especially with flexion, extension, rotation, and stability of the spinal column
Note: The spinous processes can be felt directly under the skin as bony projections along the length of the spinal column with the spinous process of the seventh vertebra in the neck region typically being the most prominent.
Word History
First Known Use
1732, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
spinous process
noun
: spine sense 2
specifically : a bony process of a vertebra that projects posteriorly from the neural arch and the junction of two laminae and provides attachment for muscles concerned especially with flexion, extension, rotation, and stability of the spinal column
Note: The spinous processes can be felt directly under the skin as bony projections along the length of the spinal column with the spinous process of the seventh vertebra in the neck region typically being the most prominent.